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Koodalike or Koodukattu – Holi in Southern Districts of Karnataka

Koodalike or Koodukattu is a unique form of Holi observed by Hindu communities who migrated from Goa to the Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and Uttara Kannada districts in Karnataka. These Hindu communities shifted to these regions after they were prosecuted by the Portuguese. This is a five-day festival begins on the Dasami or the 10th day of the Shukla Paksha of Phalguna month and ends with the Holi Purnima and festival.

The migrated communities form small groups known as Koodalike or Koodukattu, which is headed by a Gurkar. The festival is observed in the place of the Gurkar or at a convenient spot.


The festival begins after offering prayers to the Tulsi Plant. A coconut and a lamp lit on it which is touched by all the members of the Koodalike is offered to the Tulsi plant. This is done to have an incident free five-day of festivals.

A unique dance is observed during the ritual to music of gong, sticks, cymbals and other musical instruments and it is known as Habbada Kunitha.